What type of LENS do you recommend...

[FourEyes]

I have a Canon 20D and am looking for a do-it-all kind of lens. I want to be able to shoot fairly close but also zoom out (75-300MM?). I don't shoot sports; mostly still objects, which may help you with your suggestions. All suggestions welcome!

Thanks

 

[Steph]

Unfortunately there is no such thing as a do-it-all lens. What is your main subject of interest: landscape, street photography, portrait, macropphotography... Also, what is your budget? The prices of lenses can vary greatly.

 

[Big Mike]

Welcome to the forum.

Firstly, what's your budget? And what level of quality are you looking for?

The trouble with 'do-it-all' lenses is that the optical quality will not be as good as a more specific lens. Also, they usually have rather small apertures at the long end of the zoom. This may not be a problem if you don't shoot sports and don't shoot in low light...but it can be a hindrance at times.

What lens or lenses do you currently have? Are you looking to replace or compliment your current lenses?

There are several 70-300 lenses avaliable. Canon makes a a few cheap ones, as well as one with IS (image stabilization)...which is more expensive but a better lens and having IS, is great.
Sigma & Tamron also make a similar lens.

If you don't need/want 300mm....then there is the 70-200mm group of lenses...which are some of the best zoom lenses avaliable. There is the 70-200 F4L, F4 L IS, F2.8 L & F2.8 L IS. (L is Canon's designation for top quality, Pro, lenses.) These vary in price but they are each much better than the 70-300 lenses.

 

[Sw1tchFX]

sigma and tamron make 18-200's for the canon mount.

 

[Lars Leber]

I would suggest the Sigma 18-200mm lens with OS (image stabilization).

 

[FourEyes]

Thank you all for your suggestions.

In general, what is the difference in a Sigma 18-200mm OS lens versus a Canon 75-300MM 1:4-5.6 III lens?

I like shooting architecture, landscapes (reason for zoom), people (not too much sports), and weddings. Hope this helps.

Thanks again :- )

 

[nossie]

Well there's the Canon 28-300L that I've considered at $2100 and there's the Sigma 28-300 for $250. I suppose that depends a bit on your budget and how much you value your exposures.

 

[FourEyes]

My budget would be around $300. If you could give me some lenses to research now that you know my budget, that would so helpful.

Thank you all for your responses

Thanks